An introduction to the science of the study of language, known as Linguistics, with reasons for everyone to enjoy it.

Linguistics is the science of language, requiring and precipitating the study of human and animal languages and speech with their origins. As the purpose of language is to communicate, any study of communication is a study in linguistics by nature whether so asserted or not. Verbal as well as non-verbal communication are parts of linguistics. The written word, speech, Braille, sign language or the barks of a dog are all parts of the infinite study of Linguistics. A facial tick is not linguistics but a purposed wink or a smile from one to another is linguistics. Because it is intended to communicate something, whether or not it is as accurately or definitely communicated as a language of words is, it is linguistics. Linguistics as a science has two primary branches. In simple terms one branch covers the study of languages themselves while the other covers the effects of language on the world around us.

Linguistics is also the college major that many ascribe to before going on to careers in media, law, travel, telecommunications, journalism, international business, government, computer programming, advertising and a host of other really cool, seldom heard of or hard to get jobs. While we're on the subject, as an academic offering Linguistics is a close cousin to Sociology and to Psychology (my own personal major when I went to school; I received the BA, thank you). Whether you plan a casual or academic study in Linguistics, its rewards are many and immense. Only a handful of those rewards are covered here as we discuss why its study would be attractive to you.

Why is the study of linguistics on some level beneficial to everyone?

The study of Linguistics can help you reason out how and why children, nations and peoples adopt certain languages and what can happen in their development. This can help you to understand and appreciate your own language to gain confidence and personal strength in clarification. It can help you to better understand other peoples and how you are and are not alike. It can help you to help your children get it when it comes to your own language and to understand other kids with other unique languages.